(AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) — Longtime liberal Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring, numerous sources said Wednesday, giving President Joe Biden his first high court opening, which he has pledged to fill with the historic naming of the court’s first Black woman.
At least 3 judges eyed as Biden mulls Supreme Court pick
President Joe Biden is eyeing at least three judges for an expected vacancy on the Supreme Court, and each of them would fulfill his campaign pledge to nominate the first Black woman to the nation’s highest court.
apnews.com
US offers no concessions in response to Russia on Ukraine
The Biden administration and NATO have told Russia there will be no U.S. or allied concessions on Moscow's main demands to resolve the crisis over Ukraine.
apnews.com
Oath Keepers leader ordered jailed until trial on January 6 charges
Stewart Rhodes faces seditious conspiracy charges in Washington, D.C. and his attorney said they would appeal his detention.
www.cbsnews.com
How Fed hikes could affect mortgages, car loans, card rates
Will mortgage rates go up? How about car loans? Credit cards? How about those nearly invisible rates on bank CDs — any chance of getting a few dollars more?
apnews.com
U.S. offers Russia 'serious diplomatic path forward' but rejects demand to ban Ukraine from NATO
“It remains up to Russia how to decide to respond. We’re ready either way," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in Washington.
www.nbcnews.com
Schumer, Durbin vow to quickly confirm Biden's Breyer replacement as Supreme Court showdown looms
Top Senate Democrats Wednesday vowed to confirm President Biden's yet-to-be-named nominee to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.
YouTube permanently bans Dan Bongino
YouTube on Wednesday permanently banned conservative commentator Dan Bongino from the platform, saying he attempted to evade a previous suspension.The Fox host uploaded a video to his main cha…
thehill.comAustin pushes to fast-track hypersonic missiles as China, Russia make gains
A planned meeting with CEOs is a “‘no kidding, we're getting our butts kicked by China and we need to do better’ kind of meeting,” one person said.
www.politico.com
Democrats seek swift confirmation to fill Supreme Court seat
Senate Democrats have played defense for the last three Supreme Court vacancies. Now they plan to move swiftly to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and they plan to use the rapid 2020 confirmation of Justice Amy Coney Barrett as a new standard.
apnews.com
QAnon follower who attacked police at Capitol gets prison
A man who identified himself as a believer in the QAnon conspiracy theory has been sentenced to three years and eight months in prison for assaulting police officers at the Capitol during last year’s riot.
apnews.com
Kemp leading Perdue in Georgia gubernatorial primary: poll
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp is leading former Sen. David Perdue (Ga.) in the GOP primary for the Peach State’s gubernatorial race, according to a new poll.The poll, conducted by Quinnipiac University, …
thehill.com
Fed appears poised to hike interest rate in March in effort to tackle inflation
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said decisions on how often and by how much the rate increases this year have not been made.
www.cbsnews.com
'I have given up': Democratic donors plot to finance primary challenge against Kyrsten Sinema
Wealthy Democratic donors are planning to finance a primary effort against Sen. Kyrsten Sinema as she votes against key pieces of their party's agenda.
Russia builds up troops along Ukraine border with ‘many more’ potentially on the way
Russia is continuing its military buildup for a possible invasion of Ukraine, with one western intelligence official telling NBC News that Russia has 112,000 to 120,000 troops on Ukraine’s borders with “more, maybe many more, on the way.” Russia says it’s all in response to “hysterical threats”...
www.nbcnews.com
Supreme Court math: The Senate formulas for confirming or sinking Stephen Breyer's successor
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer's upcoming retirement will mark the first time a Democratic U.S. Senate has the chance to confirm a high-court justice in a post-nuclear-option world. The battle to replace him comes down to simple math.
The names to know as Biden mulls Breyer’s replacement
President Biden is set to have his first opportunity to appoint a judge to the Supreme Court after news broke that Justice Stephen Breyer is expected to announce his retirement in the coming days.&…
thehill.com
Why not to expect a scorched earth fight over Breyer’s replacement
Operatives concede that the political drama isn’t quite there, at least compared to recent battles.
www.politico.com
Progressives see Breyer retirement as cold comfort
Progressives greeted the news of Justice Stephen Breyer’s forthcoming retirement with a mixture of relief and frustration — relief at the likelihood his replacement would yield a younger and more d…
thehill.comTucker Sneers That George Floyd’s Sister Is ‘The Obvious Choice’ for Biden’s Supreme Court Nominee
Tucker Carlson hit another low mark on Wednesday night when he said that President Joe Biden only cares about race and gender when it comes to nominating a Supreme Court justice and thus should select the sister of George Floyd, the Black man murdered by a Minneapolis police officer in...
Who is Ketanji Brown Jackson? A likely Biden short-lister for Supreme Court
As a presidential candidate in 2020, Biden promised to nominate a Black woman for the court for the first time.
www.nbcnews.com
Cawthorn Challenge Raises the Question: Who Is an ‘Insurrectionist’? (Published 2022)
The challenge to Representative Madison Cawthorn’s re-election bid could set a precedent to challenge other Republicans who encouraged the Jan. 6 attack.
Federal judge allows state investigations of WinRed’s fundraising tactics to proceed | CNN Politics
A federal judge on Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit brought by WinRed that had attempted to block attorneys general in four states from investigating its fundraising practices.
www.cnn.com
Tennessee school board bans Holocaust graphic novel 'Maus' – author Art Spiegelman condemns the move as 'Orwellian'
'Maus' author Art Spiegelman spoke to CNBC after a school board in Tennessee voted to ban his landmark graphic novel about the Nazis' persecution of Jews.
House Republicans bash Democrats’ China competition bill
The bid by House Democrats to win Republican support for sweeping legislation to counter China’s economic influence has quickly fallen flat, as GOP lawmakers wasted no time panning the proposal as …
thehill.com
Judge orders Eastman to speed effort to get documents to Jan. 6 committee
Judge David Carter is pushing the Trump ally to move faster.
www.politico.com
SALT change likely to be cut from bill, say Senate Democrats
Senate Democrats say a proposal to raise the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions, a top priority of Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), is likely to be cut from the revised Bu…
thehill.com
New York AG: No basis for Trump's lawsuit challenging probe
New York’s attorney general wants to put a stop to former President Donald Trump’s attempted end-run around a yearslong civil investigation into his business practices.
apnews.com
Lawmakers' answer to the Russia-Ukraine crisis: Weapons made in their states
Members push tanks and submarines as vital for deterring Moscow.
www.politico.comPutin Is So Dangerous Now Because This Is His Last Chance to Seize Ukraine
Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero/The Daily Beast/GettyRussia’s sudden escalation around Ukraine has taken some by surprise, but the logic behind it may be deceptively simple: This winter could be Russia’s last chance to attack Ukraine.Russian military forces are amassed to Ukraine’s east...
DOJ investigating false pro-Trump electoral slates
The Justice Department is investigating allegations of phony Electoral College certifications from 2020 that declared Republicans were the electors voting for Donald Trump and Mike Pence when in fact Democrats had won and voted for President Biden and Vice President Harris, Fox News has confirmed.
Spotify sides with Joe Rogan after Neil Young ultimatum
Spotify is removing Neil Young’s music after the musician gave the streaming service an ultimatum, saying it could not provide a platform to both him and Joe Rogan due to the podcast host’s “f…
thehill.com
‘Let’s go Brandon’: Loudoun County father famous for school board rant announces bid for Congress - Washington Examiner
A Virginia parent who went viral last year over an impassioned speech he made to the Loudoun County school board announced a run for Congress on cable news Wednesday. Brandon Michon announced on Fox News's Tucker Carlson Tonight that he will compete this year to represent Virginia's 10th...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden signs order making sexual harassment an offense under military code
The executive order makes sexual harassment an offense under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
www.cbsnews.comRomney, other Trump critics to raise money for Liz Cheney re-election effort
Romney is the featured guest at a March 14 fundraiser for Cheney at the home of Bobbie Kilberg, a well-connected Virginia Republican who lined up against Trump during his 2016 bid for the White House, according to an invitation seen by Reuters. In addition to Romney, the list of attendees is...
Manchin and Sinema have hurt Biden’s agenda, but haven’t voted against a court nominee | CNN Politics
Whatever issues Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema have caused for President Joe Biden’s legislative agenda, their records on Biden’s judicial confirmation efforts are a positive signal for the President as he seeks to replace the retiring Justice Stephen Breyer.
www.cnn.com
Analysis: Why Joe Biden should be able to win a Supreme Court fight
Analysis: If there's anyone in the Democratic Party who has the incentive — and should have the acumen — to secure a Supreme Court confirmation, it's the president.
www.nbcnews.com
Bogus election claims in Michigan end up in draft order to seize voting machines nationally, state official says | CNN Politics
Debunked election fraud claims made in Michigan by former President Donald Trump’s legal team ended up in a draft executive order directing the military to seize voting machines nationally, the state’s top election official said on Wednesday.
www.cnn.com
Sweeney ousted from legislative redistricting commission in public reopening of North vs. South fight
“No person or organization’s goals and ambitions are above the interests of our party and the people of this State,” State Democratic Chair LeRoy Jones said in a statement.
www.politico.com
Leaked audio reveals DHS secretary’s tense meeting with Border Patrol agents - Washington Examiner
A meeting between Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and Border Patrol agents in the Yuma Sector of Arizona became tense Wednesday as they talked about the Biden administration's immigration policies. The agents vented about what they conveyed to be a lack of effective actions to...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Stephanie Ruhle will take Brian Williams’ 11 p.m. slot on MSNBC: report
Stephanie Ruhle will replace Brian Williams in the network’s nightly 11 p.m. slot, according to Axios.Ruhle, a morning anchor for MSNBC and senior business correspondent for NBC News, wi…
thehill.comPressure mounts in Congress for IRS to give taxpayers relief
The mountainous paperwork problem has been compounded by underlying troubles plaguing the IRS for years.
www.politico.comU.S. reinstates policy requiring prisons to consider trans people's safety
The Biden administration has restored an Obama-era policy requiring federal prisons to consider safety when deciding where to house transgender people, the Bureau of Prisons confirmed to the 19th Wednesday.Why it matters: Former President Trump had rescinded the policy, forcing hundreds of trans...
Senate Democrats eye speedy confirmation process to replace retiring Breyer
Sen. Chuck Schumer said Biden's nominee will get a "prompt" hearing and be "confirmed by the full United States Senate with all deliberate speed."
www.nbcnews.com
N.Y. attorney general moves to dismiss Trump lawsuit challenging probe
Trump's attempt to end the investigation comes shortly after he and two of his children were subpoenaed.
www.nbcnews.com
A Supreme Court vacancy upends politics for fourth election in a row
Breyer's retirement could energize dispirited Democrats, but Kavanaugh and Coney Barrett showed election-year court fights can get ugly.
www.nbcnews.com
Russia-Ukraine talks yield agreement to meet again in two weeks
Representatives from Russia and Ukraine will meet for another round of talks in two weeks after leaders huddled on Wednesday amid increased tensions in the region.Kremlin envoy Dmitry Kozak told re…
thehill.comU.S. Embassy in Ukraine urges American citizens to consider departing now
(Reuters) -The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv urged American citizens in Ukraine to consider departing now, saying that the security situation in the country was "unpredictable due to the increased threat of Russian military action." The security situation in Ukraine "can deteriorate with little notice"...
John Durham says DOJ watchdog slow to hand over info on Alfa Bank investigation - Washington Examiner
Special counsel John Durham suggested the Justice Department’s watchdog sat on key information about debunked Trump-Russia collusion claims, including a critical 2017 meeting it held with a defendant but only disclosed earlier this month. The defendant, former Hillary Clinton campaign lawyer...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Democrat delegate attacks Youngkin's faith, says his CRT ban shows he's 'not a Christian'
A Democrat in the Virginia House of Delegates slammed Gov. Glenn Youngkin, R-Va., claiming that the governor's action-packed first day in office, including the ban on critical race theory (CRT) in schools, suggests Youngkin is not “a man of faith, not a Christian.”
2020 sore losers look to run the 2024 vote | CNN Politics
Believing or promoting baseless claims of fraud, Trump acolytes are campaigning to take over secretary of state offices to manage elections their way.
www.cnn.com
Meet the women who could be Biden's pick for the next Supreme Court justice
President Biden has vowed to nominate the first Black woman to the Supreme Court if a seat were to open up.
www.cbsnews.comTalking democracy with Justice Stephen Breyer
In February 2020 — weeks before COVID-19 became a pandemic and months before Donald Trump's supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol — Justice Stephen Breyer agreed to sit for an interview with Margaret Talev for "Axios on HBO."Why it matters: Amid the instant analysis on Wednesday about the...
Clyburn predicts Supreme Court contender J. Michelle Childs would get GOP votes
House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) predicted Wednesday that potential Supreme Court nominee J. Michelle Childs would get GOP support in the Senate if President Biden taps her to fill J…
thehill.com
The U.S. says it will stand firm against major Russian demands as tension rises
Among the demands from Russia was a guarantee that Ukraine be permanently barred from NATO membership. That would violate a U.S. "core principle," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday.
www.npr.org
U.S. calls for 'serious diplomatic path forward' as Russia adds troops near Ukraine
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. laid out a "a serious diplomatic path forward" should Russia choose against invading Ukraine.
Supreme Court confirmation fight to make history in 50-50 Senate
Democrats don't need Republicans' support to confirm Justice Stephen Breyer's successor, but Majority Leader Chuck Schumer still has his work cut out for him.
www.politico.comBickering with and insulting the press isn't new. How Biden's hot mic moment fits into presidential history
From George Washington to Donald Trump, every U.S. president has attacked reporters – not always publicly, not always profanely, but consistently.
Stephen Breyer says now isn’t the time to lose faith in the Supreme Court | CNN Politics
Justice Stephen Breyer is not giving up on the Supreme Court.
www.cnn.com
Rand Paul praises removal of Neil Young songs from Spotify: ‘Seeya’
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) on Wednesday celebrated Spotify’s decision to remove Neil Young’s music from its library after the musician refused to share the streaming platform …
thehill.com
Biden gets CEO support for economic agenda
President Joe Biden is getting support from several business leaders on his economic agenda that has stalled in the Senate.
apnews.com
Denver police chief blasts ‘lack of accountability and consequences’ as crime spikes - Washington Examiner
Denver Chief of Police Paul Pazen vented Wednesday about how law enforcement in Colorado is being hamstrung in its ability to keep the public safe. Spiking crime rates can't be solved by a "lack of accountability and consequences," Pazen told the Colorado Springs Gazette, a sister publication of...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Navy SEALs to stop using Washington state parks after residents voice fears of seeing 'armed men'
The US Navy is pausing SEAL training at Washington state parks while a legal battle over their use winds its way through the courts.
'Lies through her teeth every single day': Ron DeSantis hits back at Jen Psaki for comments about Florida schools
"Obviously they have got a lot of other problems, let's just be honest," DeSantis said of the Biden administration. "This has not been a great show over the last year."
Analysis: Another testy Supreme Court battle is the last thing America needs – but it’s probably what lies ahead | CNN Politics
The last thing an internally estranged America needs is an alienating Supreme Court confirmation battle. But that’s almost certainly what lies ahead following Justice Stephen Breyer’s decision to retire.
www.cnn.comDemocrats to use Republican playbook for fast action on U.S. Supreme Court pick
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Democrats who control the U.S. Senate plan to move President Joe Biden's upcoming nomination of a replacement for retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer https://www.reuters.com/world/us/liberal-us-supreme-court-justice-stephen-breyer-retire-media-reports-2022-01-26...
Democrats' bid to keep the Senate will involve plans to fight inflation and promises for a renewed agenda
Democrats hope to overcome voters' anger over inflation and Covid, a stalled agenda, and President Biden's low approval ratings in Senate elections this fall.
Menendez goes after Sanders over SALT comments
Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) criticized Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Wednesday for saying he was “glad to hear” a Democratic proposal to raise the cap on the state and local tax (S…
thehill.com
Who is on Biden’s Supreme Court shortlist?
The White House said President Biden will stick to his campaign promise to nominate a Black woman to the Supreme Court following news that Justice Stephen Breyer is preparing to retire. Frontrunners include Ketanji Brown Jackson, who Biden nominated last year for the U.S. Court of Appeals for...
www.nbcnews.com
Harris heads to Honduras for inauguration of socialist president as US southern border crisis worsens
Vice President Kamala Harris is set to leave for Honduras on Thursday, for the inauguration of president-elect Xiomara Castro.
Florida collectibles dealer connected to Gaetz probe to plead guilty
A Florida collectibles dealer connected to the ongoing federal investigation into Rep. Matt Gaetz has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud and drug charges.
www.politico.comSC senator gets 7-year wish for medical marijuana debate
South Carolina Sen. Tom Davis walked up to the well of the Senate about 1:45 p.m. Wednesday to finally get the medical marijuana debate to which he has dedicated more than seven years of his legislative career. The Senate unanimously agreed to debate the bill by the Republican from Beaufort...
Romney participating in fundraiser for Liz Cheney
Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) is participating in a fundraiser for Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) in March as the Wyoming incumbent looks to protect her seat against Trump-endorsed Republican primary ch…
thehill.com
Ukraine crisis: US rejects Russian demand to bar Ukraine from Nato
Russia says the response does not address its concerns about Nato, but "gives hope" over other issues.
www.bbc.com
‘Who is saying it’s not paid for?’: White House waves away spending bill worries - Washington Examiner
The White House continued to insist Wednesday that a revived social welfare spending bill is fully paid for. After being left for dead in December, Democrats are heading back to the drawing board on a smaller Build Back Better bill. It's unknown what programs will make the cut this time around...
www.washingtonexaminer.comBreyer's retirement preempts more Supreme Court hardball from McConnell
Democratic activists may regard Mitch McConnell as a bogeyman of their nightmares, but there is little the Republican Senate minority leader can do to stop President Biden from nominating the next Supreme Court justice.
Burkina Faso: Military coup prompts fears of further instability
President Kabore was deposed amid anger over violence, but analysts say the military coup could unleash more insecurity.
Americans' trust in science now deeply polarized, poll shows
Republicans’ faith in science is falling as Democrats rely on it even more, with a trust gap in science and medicine widening substantially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
apnews.com
Supreme Court: Schumer to make Democrats 'walk the plank' on 'radical' Biden nominee, Rick Scott predicts
Sen. Rick Scott, the National Republican Senatorial Conference (NRSC) chairman, made the prediction in a Wednesday press release after Breyer’s retirement reveal.
Trump falsely suggests there were no supply chain issues when he was president
Global supply chains have been disrupted since the start of the pandemic, reaching new levels under the Biden administration as demand went up.
QAnon follower from South Carolina who admitted he assaulted officers on January 6 sentenced to 44 months in prison
Nicholas Languerand, an avowed follower of the QAnon conspiracy, pleaded guilty in November to assaulting law enforcement officers at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
www.cbsnews.com
Tesla reports record annual profits of $5.5 billion
Tesla reported a record annual profits of $5.5 billion in its 2021 full-year earnings call on Wednesday, saying the figure proved the “viability and profitability” of electric vehicles.…
thehill.com
US and NATO deliver responses to Russian demands over Ukraine
US rules out Russian demand to halt NATO’s eastward expansion, but says it is open to talks on arms control.
Justice Breyer long known for high-court 'hypotheticals'
Justice Stephen Breyer is famous for citing unusual legal hypotheticals during the Supreme Court's public oral argument sessions.
First US evacuation flight since November leaves Afghanistan | CNN Politics
A flight chartered by the US government left Kabul, Afghanistan, on Wednesday, marking the first evacuation departure since November, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
www.cnn.comFox News Wildly Speculates That Biden Will Name Kamala Harris to Supreme Court
Fox NewsMoments after it was reported that Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring, Fox News began running wild with unfounded speculation about who President Joe Biden will nominate to replace the liberal justice.According to Fox’s supposed “straight news” anchor Harris Faulkner and...
POLITICO-Harvard poll: Big domestic spending bills seen as stoking inflation
At a time when inflation is a growing concern, the survey found more than four in 10 people believe that both the BBB and the infrastructure bill will increase inflation.
www.politico.com
Blinken says U.S. has delivered response to Moscow's demands regarding Ukraine
The document addresses the "potential for progress" in areas like arms control in Europe.
www.cbsnews.com
‘Illegal’ Wisconsin bid to recall Biden electors fails spectacularly - Washington Examiner
A bid to recall Wisconsin's 10 electoral votes for President Joe Biden in the 2020 election was quickly snuffed out Tuesday.Republican state Rep. Timothy Ramthun introduced a resolution on the floor, which under General Assembly rules had to be referred to committee, where it was swiftly...
www.washingtonexaminer.comPotential Biden Supreme Court pick Leondra Kruger known as moderate in California
Before she turned to law and became one of the youngest justices ever appointed to the California Supreme Court, Leondra Kruger had journalism in her blood. Kruger, considered a potential U.S. Supreme Court nominee for President Joe Biden to replace the retiring Justice Stephen Breyer...
Biden and Breyer will hold event at White House on Thursday, source says | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden and Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer are scheduled to appear together at the White House on Thursday as the 83-year-old justice is set to announce his retirement, a source familiar with the plan tells CNN.
www.cnn.com
Biden picks 6 lawyers for US prosecutor posts, diverse group
President Joe Biden has nominated six lawyers to run U.S. attorney’s offices across the country. The nominees announced by the White House on Wednesday for the top law enforcement positions would run the federal prosecutors’ offices in Alaska, Connecticut, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico and Utah
apnews.com
Biden expected to nominate first black woman to Supreme Court
The announcement comes amid news that Justice Stephen Breyer is expected to retire in June.
www.bbc.com
Inside Biden’s calculated response to Breyer’s retirement | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden received a much-needed political opening on Wednesday. But neither he, nor anyone close to him, appeared ready to celebrate it.
www.cnn.com
‘Assumed as criminals’: Hong Kong defendants find bail elusive
Courts are taking a more stringent approach to bail, leaving many behind bars even before their trial begins.
Chamber of Commerce threatens to sue FTC
Also: House lawmakers have unveiled companion legislation to the Senate’s China competitiveness bill.
www.politico.com
A nor'easter could bring several inches of snow to the Northeast this weekend
The National Weather Service said it was too early to predict snowfall totals but warned that "blizzard conditions near the coast" could occur depending on the storm's path.
www.npr.orgRedrawn district: Top Kentucky state Dem ends reelection bid
Kentucky's top-ranking state House Democrat announced Wednesday that she won't seek reelection this year, saying she won't stand in the way of a “person of color" being elected in her newly redrawn district where racial minorities represent the majority of eligible voters. Rep. Joni Jenkins...
Warnock outraises Walker in Georgia Senate race
Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) raised more than $9.8 million in the final quarter of 2021, outpacing his chief GOP rival, Herschel Walker.Warnock’s campaign said the latest sum exceeds his reco…
thehill.comInside Russia's thinking on Ukraine
www.politico.com
North Korea fires 2 suspected missiles in 6th launch in 2022
South Korea's military says North Korea fired two suspected ballistic missiles into the sea in its sixth round of weapons launches this month.
apnews.comBiden almost forgot to announce his promise to appoint a Black woman to the Supreme Court during a primary debate, book claims
President Biden nearly forgot to make his now-famous vow during a Democratic presidential debate.
Russia maybe 'not serious' about diplomacy on Ukraine but ball in its court: Blinken
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday the U.S. had delivered a written response to Moscow in a diplomatic effort to resolve the Ukraine crisis.
California city facing gun-rights group's lawsuit over liability-insurance requirement
A gun-rights group is suing the city of San Jose, California in response to the city’s new ordinance mandating that gun owners in the city carry liability insurance and pay an annual fee.
Prince Andrew denies close friendship with Ghislaine Maxwell in US court files
In US court files, the prince, who denies assault claims, also asks for a jury trial in his accuser's lawsuit.
www.bbc.comNY attorney general urges end to Donald Trump's bid to thwart her probe
New York State attorney general Letitia James on Wednesday urged the dismissal of Donald Trump's lawsuit seeking to stop her civil probe into him and his family business, where she claims to have found evidence of possible fraud. In a filing with the U.S. District Court in Albany, New York...
Laser temporarily blinds medical helicopter crew member
A crew member aboard the flight experienced temporary blindness and blurred vision from the laser.
DCCC issues support for aggressive New York gerrymander that could eliminate 5 GOP seats
The national Democratic Party is urging Democrats in New York to support a gerrymander plan that could drastically change the political makeup of the state by eliminating five of the eight Republican seats in Congress.
The inside story of how Biden promised to appoint a Black woman to the Supreme Court
With the announcement that Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring, the White House’s plans to replace him are likely to be shaped by relatively little-known comments that Joe Biden made in 2020 under intense political pressure during the make-or-break South Carolina presidential primary.
Official says Puerto Rico's Senate targeted by cyberattack
Puerto Rico’s Senate says it was the target of a cyberattack that disabled its internet provider, phone system and official online page
Firefighter says she urged officers to let her help Floyd
A Minneapolis firefighter testifying at the federal trial of three former Minneapolis police officers says they ignored her pleas to help administer medical aid to George Floyd as the unresponsive Black man was pinned to the ground.
apnews.com
Ukraine crisis updates: What to know as tensions rise
Russia has placed more than 100,000 troops near Ukraine's border and ratcheted up war games in the region. Here are the biggest developments happening today.
apnews.com
Florida radio host cooperates in federal investigation into Rep. Matt Gaetz, attorney tells CNN | CNN Politics
Florida radio host Joseph “Big Joe” Ellicott is cooperating with the US Justice Department’s investigation into Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida after pleading guilty in a separate bribery scheme, Ellicott’s attorney tells CNN.
www.cnn.comDozens of Democrats demand Biden release legal memo on student debt cancellation
Warren, Schumer and other top progressives want answers on what Education Department lawyers think about erasing large swaths of student debt.
www.politico.com
Bill Clinton's influence on Supreme Court to end with Breyer departure
When Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer steps down from the nation's highest court – as Fox News has been told he intends to do at the end of the court's current term – his departure will end the influence of former President Bill Clinton on the court.
India: Mobs burn train coaches in protests over jobs in railways
Angry protesters set fire to train coaches over access to railway jobs as police are criticised for a violent crackdown.
Former public defender Jackson among possible Biden Supreme Court picks
Ketanji Brown Jackson, a federal judge seen as a potential U.S. Supreme Court nominee for President Joe Biden, could make history as the first Black woman justice, boasting a varied legal resume including representing criminal defendants who could not afford a lawyer. Jackson, 51, who Biden...
Major winter storm could develop into bomb cyclone, slamming Northeast with hurricane-force winds and heavy snow this weekend
The quickly-intensifying winter storm could develop into a nor'easter, possibly unleashing blizzard conditions.
www.cbsnews.com
EPA acts to curb air, water pollution in poor communities
The Environmental Protection Agency is taking a series of enforcement actions to address air pollution, unsafe drinking water and other problems afflicting minority communities in three Gulf Coast states.
apnews.com
Downing Street parties: Boris Johnson vows to fight on as MPs await Sue Gray report
Boris Johnson rejects Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer's calls to quit at a stormy Prime Minister's Questions.
www.bbc.comJudge blocks South Dakota rule that hinders medication abortions
Planned Parenthood sought the injunction against the South Dakota measure, which was first part of an executive order issued last September by Governor Kristi Noem, a Republican. Judge Karen Schreier wrote in her ruling that Planned Parenthood had shown that South Dakota had created a...
Biden promised Rep. Clyburn to nominate Black woman to the Supreme Court
President Biden will soon be faced with the choice of whether to make good on a promise about the Supreme Court he made to secure a key endorsement during the 2020 South Carolina primary, when his campaign was struggling to survive.
Here’s how long it’s taken to confirm past Supreme Court justices | CNN Politics
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s plans to retire from the high court after nearly three decades on the bench are set to pave the way for a speedy confirmation process for his eventual successor.
www.cnn.com
SpaceX rocket segment on course to hit the moon
A segment of a SpaceX rocket that launched seven years ago is currently on course to crash into the moon.
Man suspected of killing Texas deputy arrested in Mexico
A fugitive suspected of gunning down a Texas deputy constable during a traffic stop over in Houston has been taken into custody in Mexico, authorities said on Wednesday.
GM hiring 8,000 technical positions in 2022
General Motors is hiring 8,000 new technical positions in 2022, as it ramps up its development and production of electric vehicles, the company announced on Wednesday. In a LinkedIn post, the …
thehill.com
Hochul dubbed 'evictor in chief' as tenant advocates push her into tight political spot over rent protections
Hochul thus far has not taken a position on the measure, telling reporters when asked about the bill in November she would work with the Legislature to “come up with the right answers.”
www.politico.com
Two more arrested by UK police in connection to Texas hostage situation - Washington Examiner
Police in the United Kingdom arrested two more men in connection to the hostage situation that took place at a synagogue in Texas earlier this month. The two men were picked up in Manchester and are being held for questioning, according to a statement from the Greater Manchester Police. It is...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
US gives $2.5m for Tonga disaster relief, as aid gathers pace
US will also deploy USS Sampson to join Australian and British ships on ‘contactless’ aid runs following tsunami.
EXPLAINER: What’s next for the Supreme Court vacancy?
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden and Senate Democrats are expected to move quickly to fill the seat of retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, seizing the chance to energize their voting base ahead of November's midterm elections, when control of Congress will be at stake.
apnews.com
Mississippi capital city struggles with aging water system
Mississippi's capital city struggles with an unreliable water system that has problems with both quality and distribution.
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Russia and Ukraine agree to continue ceasefire talks | CNN
Russian and Ukrainian negotiators agreed that a permanent ceasefire in eastern Ukraine must be observed “unconditionally” following hours-long talks in Paris on Wednesday.
www.cnn.comU.S. plans surprise inspections to protect communities burdened by pollution
The U.S. government on Wednesday announced a program of surprise pollution checks at petrochemical plants and other facilities under a Biden administration drive to protect the environment in nearby communities, which often are poor and have minority populations. Environmental Protection Agency...
Norway's PM says Russia build-up is `a sign of weakness'
Norway’s prime minister says he believes it’s “a sign of weakness” that President Vladimir Putin has to express Moscow’s political views by an “extraordinary” military buildup
Powell's got the answers. We've got the questions.
How much and how often will officials raise rates this year, how soon will they start shrinking their portfolio of assets and what will that process look like?
www.politico.com
Prince Andrew renews attempt to get Giuffre suit dismissed
Prince Andrew’s lawyers have asked a U.S. court again to throw out a lawsuit accusing him of sexual abuse, citing multiple legal defenses.
apnews.com
Black-owned autonomous grocery store opens in Georgia
The world's first Black-owned autonomous grocery store has opened in Fayetteville, Georgia.
Battered Biden gets opportunity to change political narrative as Breyer retires
Analysis: president faces high expectations as he prepares make one of his most consequential decisions Joe Biden has pledged to nominate a Black woman to the supreme court. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters In his spare time, Justice Stephen Breyer enjoyed taking the bench at humorous “mock...
POLITICO Playbook: Ominous signs for Ukraine
And new polling shows a narrow race between Biden and Trump in 2024.
www.politico.com
US man charged with selling gun used in Texas synagogue siege
Michael Williams allegedly sold a gun to Malik Faisal Akram days before he took hostages in Texas.
www.bbc.com
Who could replace Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer?
Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring at the end of the current term later this summer. Who could President Biden nominate to take his place?
Clarifying the Electoral Count Act
A group of Republican and Democratic senators are working to reform the way elections are certified.
www.cbsnews.com
Antisemitic fliers found in Florida, five other states
Local law enforcement in numerous cities are investigating the origins of the flier.
thehill.com
Governors enjoy cash deluge right before they face the voters
From "Walz checks" to nurse bonuses, state leaders are pushing money out the door in a competitive reelection year.
www.politico.com
China less worried about global criticism these Olympics
The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics open in just over a week. When Beijing held the Summer Olympics in 2008, the International Olympic Committee predicted the Games could improve human rights, and Chinese politicians hinted at the same.
apnews.com
Picasso heirs launch digital art piece to ride 'crypto' wave
Pablo, meet Crypto. Heirs of Pablo Picasso, the famed 20th-century Spanish artist, are vaulting into 21st-century commerce by selling 1,010 digital art pieces of one of his ceramic works that has never before been seen publicly — riding a fad for “crypto” assets that have taken the art and financial
apnews.com
In Afghanistan, Taliban diktat sparks debate about women’s attire
Some Afghan women protest burqa diktat while others say the Taliban should focus on more pressing issues.
North Carolina mother, young daughter found safely after going missing in 2016
A North Carolina who went missing with her young daughter in 2016 have been found safe, according to authorities.
Spotify removes Neil Young's music after he objects to Joe Rogan's podcast
The move came two days after Neil Young requested that his work be removed from Spotify in protest over coronavirus misinformation on Joe Rogan's podcast.
www.npr.org
New Jersey political consultant pleads guilty in murder-for-hire plot - Washington Examiner
A New Jersey-based Democratic Party political consultant admitted Tuesday to being involved in a murder-for-hire scheme. Sean Caddle, 44, a consultant to former New Jersey state Sen. Raymond Lesniak, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit murder for hire in connection to the 2014...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Republicans gear up for Supreme Court confirmation battle
Republicans are gearing up for a Supreme Court confirmation battle after Justice Stephen Breyer’s retirement plans were leaked on Wednesday.
Twitter suspends a Wordle spoiler bot
The account @wordlinator automatically responded to tweets about the game with the next day's answer, ruining the daily puzzle for everyone.
www.nbcnews.com
Nord Stream 2: Why Russia’s pipeline to Europe divides the West
Germany claims the project is commercial, but the US fears Moscow will use the pipeline to increase leverage in Europe.
Spotify removes Neil Young after he calls for Joe Rogan to go
The Harvest Moon singer says airing Rogan's podcast amounts to "lies being sold for money".
www.bbc.com
Bridges don’t build themselves: How Dems' spending flop hurts their infrastructure victory
Democrats have pinned part of their election hopes on infrastructure progress. But they're lacking a pot of money essential to carrying out that vision.
www.politico.com
Rioter who wore 'Camp Auschwitz' sweatshirt pleads guilty
A Virginia man who wore a “Camp Auschwitz” sweatshirt at the U.S. Capitol during last year’s riot has pleaded guilty to joining the mob of people who stormed the building.
apnews.com
National LGBTQ group GLSEN appoints first Black, nonbinary executive director
Melanie Willingham-Jaggers said GLSEN will continue to empower LGBTQ students as they push for safer schools amid continued culture wars.
www.nbcnews.com
Ex-US senator Jeff Flake begins post as ambassador to Turkey
Former U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake has formally stepped into his new position as U.S. ambassador to Turkey, after presenting his credentials to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
apnews.com
California firearms: City rules gun owners must have liability cover
In a US first, San Jose, California will make gun owners insure themselves against injury or accident.
www.bbc.com
Experts say framing affirmative action as anti-Asian bias is 'dangerous'
“This is an old tactic in white supremacy’s playbook and should not be allowed to succeed,” one scholar said.
www.nbcnews.com
Lauren Book extorted over nude photos says some blamed her looks: 'Terrible thing to say'
Florida state Sen. Lauren Book details why she's combatting digital sex crimes in the state legislature following extortion over her own private images.
Democrats urge Biden to keep pledge to limit nuclear weapons
Letter by 55 senators and members of Congress comes amid reports Biden will make only minor changes to nuclear posture review An unarmed Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile test launch at Vandenberg air force base in California. During the campaign Biden said the US does not need new...
Judge casts doubt on January 6 defense strategy of calling Trump to the stand | CNN Politics
A federal judge appeared unconvinced on Wednesday that Donald Trump should be allowed to testify at a trial of a US Capitol riot defendant who is arguing the former President could be a helpful witness.
www.cnn.com
Federal court upholds stay of execution for Alabama death row inmate
The state attorney general's office said it will appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court.
www.cbsnews.com
A simple guide to the Ukraine-Russia crisis: 5 things to know
What led to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine? And what could come next? We answer the critical questions.
$110,000 reward offered for information on death of 16-year-old girl
The L.A. district attorney announced a $110,000 reward for information leading to the killers of 16-year-old Tioni Theus.
Supreme Court confirmation process: What to know
Here's how the process for President Joe Biden replacing Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer will play out, from nomination to confirmation.
Indigenous town in Mexico survives on remittances from US
Comachuen is a Puerpecha Inidgenous community of about 10,000 inhabitants nestled high in the pine-clad mountains of the western state of Michoacan.
apnews.com
Leaked emails suggest UK’s Boris Johnson may have lied about evacuating animals before people from Afghanistan | CNN
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s credibility was once again thrown into doubt on Wednesday, after leaked emails appeared to contradict his claim of having no involvement in the evacuation of animals from a British charity in Afghanistan as the country fell to the Taliban and people were...
www.cnn.com
Biden to NYC next week to discuss gun crime with Mayor Adams
The White House says President Joe Biden will travel to New York City next week to discuss combating gun crime with Mayor Eric Adams.
apnews.com
Oklahoma executes man for 2001 slayings of 2 hotel workers
Oklahoma has executed a man for the brutal slayings of two hotel workers during a robbery in 2001. Forty-six-year-old Donald Grant received a lethal injection Thursday morning at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester.
apnews.com
‘It creates a lot of anxiety’: Ahead of the Winter Olympics, athletes are doing everything to avoid catching Covid-19 | CNN
For athletes competing at the Winter Olympics in Beijing, arriving at the Games with a clean bill of health is a crucial part of their preparation.
www.cnn.com
GOP senators press Biden admin for answers on 'politically motivated' attacks against parents
Republican senators are requesting a formal investigation into the Biden administration's alleged coordination with the National School Boards Association (NSBA) and the National Education Association (NEA) and whether those relationships were used to silence parents critical of schools'...
With young people getting colon cancer at high rates, doctors highlight importance of screening
A new study has found that more and more young people are being diagnosed with colon cancer, prompting renewed calls among doctors for early detection and screening.
Video shows Houston patrol vehicle fatally strike 75-year-old man's car
Family members of Charles Payne have accused Houston Police Officer Christopher Cabrera of speeding.
www.nbcnews.com
Crime concerns behind neighborhood's idea to secede from Atlanta
The separation worries leaders in Atlanta of its potential impact in the region.
Alabama man accused of keeping meth-fueled 'attack squirrel' faces new charges
Mickey Paulk was arrested in 2019 after authorities received a tip about the allegedly drugged squirrel. Aside from the rodent, police found body armor and meth.
www.nbcnews.com
Amy Schneider's historic 'Jeopardy!' streak comes to an end after 40 wins
Schneider, the first transgender contestant to make it to the Tournament of Champions, won close to $1.4 million in the second-longest winning streak in the quiz show’s history.
www.nbcnews.com
Medicare posts key nursing home staffing info for consumers
Medicare says it's shining a light on key markers for nursing home quality. Starting Wednesday, the program is posting details on staff turnover and weekend nurse coverage on its “Care Compare” website, where families research individual facilities.
apnews.com
A Philadelphia officer was dragged 5 blocks by a vehicle during a traffic stop, police say | CNN
A Philadelphia police officer is recovering after being dragged for five blocks while hanging out of a vehicle as the driver attempted to flee, according to an incident report.
www.cnn.com
Texas woman arrested after allegedly trying to buy another woman’s child for $500,000 at Walmart
Rebecca Lanette Taylor is accused of offering to pay cash for a woman's one-year-old son, who she allegedly described as the "perfect fit" for her.
www.nbcnews.com
Supreme Court denies Oklahoma inmate's request to halt upcoming execution
The decision paves the way for Grant to receive a lethal injection Thursday morning.
www.nbcnews.com
Vaccine mandate to kick in for first wave of health workers
A requirement to get vaccinated against COVID-19 kicks in Thursday for millions of health care workers in about half the states.
apnews.com
Government medical advisers urge ICE to expand COVID-19 vaccinations for immigrant detainees
COVID-19 cases among immigrants in ICE detention have increased by 848% since the start of the year, government statistics show.
www.cbsnews.com
As new variants emerge, US government turns attention to a universal coronavirus vaccine
The Army is working on a so-called pan-coronavirus vaccine to combat even future variants.
Moderna vaccinates first participant in phase 2 trial of Omicron-specific booster | CNN
Moderna announced Wednesday that the first participant has been dosed in the company’s Phase 2 clinical trial of a coronavirus vaccine booster shot that is specific to the Omicron variant.
www.cnn.com
Long COVID-19: Study author explains four factors that can predict how you get it
Long COVID-19 has had an air of mystery around it for months. Doctors have struggled to explain or understand why some people who contract COVID-19 end up having lingering symptoms like fatigue,&nb…
thehill.comFauci challenges Fox News vaccine falsehoods: ‘The facts are stunningly obvious’
The top public health authorities in the Biden administration denounced misinformation about the coronavirus vaccines following an anti-vaccine rally in Washington, D.C., over the weekend and a falsehood-laden segment on Fox News on Tuesday night that has been widely shared on social media.
Navy discharges 1st active-duty sailors for vaccine refusal
The Navy said Tuesday that it has discharged 23 active-duty sailors for refusing the coronavirus vaccine, marking the first time it has thrown currently serving sailors out of the military over the mandatory shots.
apnews.com
Moderna starts trial on omicron-specific Covid booster in adults
The company says antibodies that can fight omicron begin to wane 6 months after a booster shot of the original vaccine.
www.nbcnews.com
Psaki: 'Fully vaccinated' doesn't mean you're 'up-to-date' on vaccinations
White House press secretary Jen Psaki Wednesday touched on the reported retirement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer, President Biden's negotiations with China, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Scientists identify factors linked to little-understood ‘long COVID’ - Washington Examiner
A group of scientists have offered clues about the contributing factors to "long COVID," a range of symptoms that could afflict a person weeks or months after recovering from COVID-19. DESANTIS WARS WITH BIDEN FDA OVER MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES — HERE'S WHY Dozens of researchers reported in a study...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Bowser extends DC mask mandate through February
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser on Wednesday extended the city’s COVID-19 indoor mask requirement through the end of February.According to the mayor’s office, the t…
thehill.comUS donated over 400m Covid-19 vaccine doses to 112 countries, says White House
The donation is largest in the world and marks a major milestone for the White House’s goal of donating 1.2bn vaccine doses worldwide Half of all eligible adults in the US are boosted, the White House Covid-19 response coordinator revealed. Photograph: Artur Widak/NurPhoto/Rex/Shutterstock The...
Democrats walk out of hearing with Florida's top doctor
Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo moved closer to Senate confirmation Wednesday after a tense hearing where Democrats accused the state's top doctor of evading questions on his coronavirus policies and stormed out before casting their votes. Ladapo, appointed in September by Republican...
Fans attending Super Bowl LVI to be given KN95 masks
Los Angeles County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said on Tuesday that fans attending the Super Bowl next month would be given free KN95 masks to be worn while attending the sporting event.F…
thehill.com
Fauci expects most states to reach peak omicron by February. Close to half already have.
Nearly two dozen states, plus two territories and Washington D.C., are no longer surging, according to an NBC News analysis of Covid-19 case number data.
www.nbcnews.com
There's one population that gets overlooked by an 'everyone will get COVID' mentality
The roughly 7 million Americans who are immunocompromised — including many people with disabilities — live with much higher risk of COVID-19, and near-constant vigilance.
www.npr.org
Norwegian skiers, other Olympic hopefuls positive for virus
Two members of Norway’s women’s cross-country team and a U.S. bobsledder have tested positive for the coronavirus ahead of next month's Beijing Olympics.
apnews.com
COVID-19 vaccine developers to use mRNA technology for better shingles inoculation - Washington Examiner
Researchers at Pfizer and BioNTech said they believe they can make an even better vaccine for shingles using promising messenger RNA technology perfected in their COVID-19 shots. Clinical trials of the vaccine for shingles, a debilitating disease triggered by a chronic form of the virus that...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
China's Olympics COVID measures test residents' patience
Repeated COVID-19 testing of millions of Beijing residents is starting to test the patience of some as the city clamps down on the virus ahead of the coming Winter Olympics.
apnews.com
S. Korea tests new virus steps as infections reach new high
South Korea is enforcing new COVID-19 response measures, including reduced quarantine periods and expanded rapid testing as its new cases jumped nearly 50% in a day.
apnews.com
